What Size Frame Do I Need? The Complete Guide to Choosing the Right Picture Frame
What Size Frame Do I Need?
The correct picture frame size is determined by the exact dimensions of your artwork, not the outside dimensions of an existing frame. If you're framing a photograph, print, poster, diploma, or canvas, begin by measuring the artwork itself. For artwork displayed without a mat, the frame size usually matches the artwork dimensions exactly. If you add a mat, the finished frame becomes larger to accommodate the mat border.
If you're unsure, our Frame Size Calculator can help determine the correct finished frame dimensions in seconds.
Quick Answer
Choose your frame size using these simple rules:
✔ Measure the artwork—not the existing frame.
✔ If you're not using a mat, order a frame that matches the artwork dimensions.
✔ If you're adding a mat, the artwork size stays the same, but the outside frame dimensions increase based on the mat width.
✔ For stretched canvas, also measure the canvas depth to ensure the correct floater frame profile.
How Frame Size Is Determined
Choosing the correct frame is easier than most people think.
The process is simply:
Measure Artwork → Decide on a Mat → Calculate Finished Frame Size → Choose a Frame
(Insert the "What Size Frame Do I Need?" infographic here.)
The artwork dimensions determine everything else.
Standard Artwork Sizes and Recommended Frame Sizes
| Artwork Size | Without Mat | With 2" Mat | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 × 7 | 5 × 7 | 9 × 11 | Photos |
| 8 × 10 | 8 × 10 | 12 × 14 | Photos, Certificates |
| 11 × 14 | 11 × 14 | 15 × 18 | Photography |
| 16 × 20 | 16 × 20 | 20 × 24 | Fine Art |
| 18 × 24 | 18 × 24 | 22 × 28 | Prints, Posters |
| 24 × 36 | 24 × 36 | 28 × 40 | Movie Posters |
| 30 × 40 | 30 × 40 | 34 × 44 | Photography |
| 36 × 48 | 36 × 48 | 40 × 52 | Oversized Artwork |
These are common examples. Every custom frame should ultimately be built using the exact measurements of your artwork.
Step 1: Measure Your Artwork
Before choosing a frame, measure:
- Width
- Height
- Canvas depth (if applicable)
Do not:
- Measure the outside of an old frame
- Measure only the visible opening
- Assume the labelled size is accurate
Every custom frame begins with accurate artwork measurements.
Step 2: Decide Whether You Want a Mat
A mat is the border that surrounds artwork inside a frame.
Benefits include:
- Adds visual breathing room
- Keeps artwork from touching the glazing
- Creates a larger, more balanced presentation
- Highlights photographs, diplomas, and fine art
Many customers choose mat borders between 1½ and 3 inches, depending on the artwork size and desired look.
Step 3: Calculate the Finished Frame Size
If you're not using a mat:
Artwork: 16 × 20
Frame: 16 × 20
If you're adding a 2-inch mat:
Artwork: 16 × 20
Mat border: 2 inches on each side
Finished frame: 20 × 24
The artwork dimensions never change—only the finished outside dimensions increase.
Recommended Frame Widths
Choosing the right moulding width is just as important as selecting the correct frame size.
| Artwork Size | Suggested Frame Width |
| Up to 8 × 10 | ½–1 inch |
| 8 × 10 to 16 × 20 | ¾–1½ inches |
| 16 × 20 to 24 × 36 | 1–2½ inches |
| 24 × 36 to 36 × 48 | 1½–3 inches |
| Larger than 36 × 48 | 2–4 inches |
These recommendations are guidelines only. Modern interiors often favour wider mouldings, while minimalist artwork may look best in thinner profiles.
Frame Recommendations by Artwork Type
Photographs
- Usually framed with a mat.
- White or off-white mats remain the most popular choice.
- Narrow to medium-width wood mouldings work well for most photography.
Posters
Movie and concert posters are commonly displayed without mats, although premium posters often benefit from a wide mat for a gallery-style presentation.
Always measure the actual poster rather than relying on the printed size.
Fine Art Prints
Many collectors prefer a double mat combined with a solid wood frame to create visual depth and better protect the artwork.
Canvas Paintings
Stretched canvas is typically displayed in a floater frame rather than a traditional picture frame.
Measure:
- Width
- Height
- Canvas depth
All three measurements are required.
Diplomas
Measure the diploma itself rather than an existing frame.
A mat is highly recommended to improve presentation and prevent the document from touching the glazing.
Common Customer Mistakes
One of the most common issues we see is customers measuring the wrong item.
Avoid these mistakes:
- Measuring the outside of an existing frame
- Measuring only the visible image
- Forgetting to measure canvas depth
- Rounding measurements
- Assuming all posters are exactly their advertised size
Taking accurate measurements before ordering saves time and ensures a perfect fit.
Should I Buy a Standard or Custom Frame?
A standard frame may work if your artwork matches a common retail size exactly.
A custom frame is the better choice when:
- The artwork has non-standard dimensions.
- You want a specific mat border.
- You're framing valuable artwork.
- You're framing oversized pieces.
- You're framing stretched canvas.
- You want a particular moulding style or finish.
Custom framing also provides far greater flexibility in materials, proportions, and presentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should my frame be the same size as my artwork?
Yes—if you're not using a mat.
If you are using a mat, the finished frame becomes larger.
What size frame do I need for an 18 × 24 print?
Without a mat, use an 18 × 24 frame.
With a 2-inch mat, the finished frame is typically 22 × 28.
What size frame do I need for a 24 × 36 poster?
A 24 × 36 frame fits most posters of that size. However, always measure the actual poster first because manufacturing tolerances vary.
Can I use a frame slightly larger than my artwork?
Not without a mat or other mounting solution.
A custom frame should fit the artwork accurately to provide proper support and appearance.
How wide should my frame be?
As artwork becomes larger, wider mouldings usually create a more balanced appearance.
For large artwork over 36 × 48 inches, mouldings between 2 and 4 inches wide are common.
What if my artwork isn't a standard size?
That's exactly what custom framing is designed for.
Every custom frame is built specifically for the dimensions of your artwork, whether it's 11 × 14, 33 × 47, 47 × 63, or any other size.
Need Help Choosing the Right Frame?
Whether you're framing a family photograph, a university diploma, a stretched canvas, a limited-edition print, or an oversized poster, choosing the correct frame begins with accurate measurements.
At Custom Frames Canada, we manufacture custom frames built to your exact dimensions using premium solid wood mouldings, acrylic glazing, and professional framing materials.
Use our Frame Size Calculator to calculate your finished frame size, or contact our team if you'd like help selecting the perfect frame for your project.